Efficacy of Acceptance and Commitment Therapy on Depression and Anxiety of Patients with Celiac (Coeliac) and It’s Relation to Therapeutic Response in Yazd

Abstract

Background: Celiac is an inflammatory bowel disease and an autoimmune disorder which is genetically stimulated by gluten-free protein synthesis. Patients with this disease usually suffer from anxiety and depression. Cognitive-behavioural therapy focusing on mindfulness and considering psychological flexibility have been more effective than other treatments on depression and anxiety of psychiatric patients. The aim of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of acceptance and commitment therapy on depression and anxiety in celiac disease. Method: This Quasi-Experimental study was carried out on celiac patients admitted to the celiac committee, celiac and gastroenterologists' clinics of Yazd in Iran. Thirty participants selected by available sampling and randomly allocated to two experimental and control groups. Hospital Anxiety and Depression Inventory (HADS) and Gastrointestinal Symptom Scale (GIS) Scale used to collect data. The data analysed by Fisher’s exact test, Independent t test and ANOVA. Result: In the experimental group, the mental health variable (anxiety, depression and therapeutic response) significantly improved after the intervention in the post-test. Conclusion: Acceptance and commitment therapy was effective in improving depression and anxiety in celiac disease. Probability, the participation of the patient in a group of people with the same illness and the sharing of therapeutic experiences led to reduction of anxiety and depression and, consequently, improved patient function in their treatment.